Colonialization, Migration, and Nationalism: Influences on the Emergence of Populist Political Parties in Germany and Ireland
Abstract
Populist political parties have gained traction in Europe over the past 30 years, influencing the modern political sphere and contributing to party polarization. The emergence of these parties can be traced to contextual variables and exogenous shocks. However, there are still questions as to why populist parties arise along the left-right political spectrum. Studies have reviewed factors which lead to right-wing populism, including nationalism and migration sentiments, but no comparative studies have been done with an emphasis on colonial legacy. This project poses the question of how colonial legacies impact the emergence of populist parties along the left-right political spectrum. This research examines the connections between colonial legacy and the emergence of populist political parties, using the left-wing populist party Sinn Féin in Ireland and right-wing Alternative für Deutschland in Germany as case studies. Using a comparative case study structure and qualitative methods, this project conducted a review of party platforms, historical events, and existing research on populist parties to identify divergences in the parties’ influences. It is anticipated that the analysis will reveal associations between colonial legacy and support for left-right wing populism across Europe. A more positive view of colonialism may lead to increased support for right-wing populist parties, while negative views of colonialism may lead to increased support for left-wing populist parties. Perspectives and views on migrants are expected to serve as a mechanism in mobilizing populist party support, while also relating back to colonial legacy.
Start Time
15-4-2026 9:00 AM
End Time
16-4-2026 10:00 AM
Room Number
271
Presentation Type
Oral Presentation
Presentation Subtype
UG Orals
Presentation Category
Social Sciences
Student Type
Undergraduate
Faculty Mentor
Michael Bufano
Colonialization, Migration, and Nationalism: Influences on the Emergence of Populist Political Parties in Germany and Ireland
271
Populist political parties have gained traction in Europe over the past 30 years, influencing the modern political sphere and contributing to party polarization. The emergence of these parties can be traced to contextual variables and exogenous shocks. However, there are still questions as to why populist parties arise along the left-right political spectrum. Studies have reviewed factors which lead to right-wing populism, including nationalism and migration sentiments, but no comparative studies have been done with an emphasis on colonial legacy. This project poses the question of how colonial legacies impact the emergence of populist parties along the left-right political spectrum. This research examines the connections between colonial legacy and the emergence of populist political parties, using the left-wing populist party Sinn Féin in Ireland and right-wing Alternative für Deutschland in Germany as case studies. Using a comparative case study structure and qualitative methods, this project conducted a review of party platforms, historical events, and existing research on populist parties to identify divergences in the parties’ influences. It is anticipated that the analysis will reveal associations between colonial legacy and support for left-right wing populism across Europe. A more positive view of colonialism may lead to increased support for right-wing populist parties, while negative views of colonialism may lead to increased support for left-wing populist parties. Perspectives and views on migrants are expected to serve as a mechanism in mobilizing populist party support, while also relating back to colonial legacy.
